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### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin**
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, prepare your pork loin by trimming any excess fat, but leave some to ensure tenderness and flavor during cooking. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels, and then rub it all over with a little bit of salt and pepper. This basic seasoning will enhance the flavors in the dish and allow the sweetness of the Coca-Cola marinade to shine.
**Step 2: Sear the Pork Loin**
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork loin in the skillet. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it forms a nice golden-brown crust. This step helps lock in the juices and adds flavor, so don’t skip it!
**Step 3: Prepare the Coca-Cola Sauce**
While the pork loin is searing, combine the Coca-Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, cinnamon, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a separate bowl. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth. This combination of ingredients creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that will infuse the pork loin during cooking.
**Step 4: Roast the Pork Loin**
Once the pork loin is seared, pour the Coca-Cola sauce over the top of the pork. Ensure that the sauce covers the loin evenly. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.
During the roasting process, baste the pork with the sauce every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. As the pork roasts, the Coca-Cola sauce will reduce, becoming thick and sticky, which creates a glaze on the meat.
**Step 5: Rest the Pork Loin**
Once the pork loin is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender. While the pork rests, you can spoon some of the reduced Coca-Cola sauce from the pan over the top for extra flavor.
**Step 6: Slice and Serve**
After resting, slice the pork loin into thick, juicy slices and serve it with the remaining Coca-Cola sauce on top. The result is a beautifully tender roast with a rich, caramelized flavor that is a true testament to Southern cooking. Garnish with fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal.
### Serving Suggestions
The **Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin** pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic Southern sides. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
– **Mashed potatoes** or **sweet potato mash**: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet glaze of the pork.
– **Collard greens** or **green beans**: Add some sautéed greens to bring a savory, slightly bitter balance to the sweet pork.
– **Cornbread**: A classic Southern side, cornbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the pork.
– **Roasted vegetables**: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or even squash make a wonderful addition to this dish.
### Why Coca-Cola?
You might wonder why Coca-Cola is used in this recipe. The soda’s high sugar content allows it to caramelize during the roasting process, creating a rich, sticky glaze. The acidity of the Coca-Cola also helps tenderize the meat, making it more juicy and flavorful. It’s a simple yet effective ingredient that transforms an everyday roast into something truly special.
### Conclusion
The **Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin** is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings the heart and soul of Southern cooking into your home. With its combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, it’s a recipe that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a meal with loved ones, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Try it today, and let the magic of Coca-Cola elevate your pork loin to new heights!
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